Systems Biology for Traditional Chinese Medicine

The application of systems biology methods to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Emphasizing the harmony of the human body with the environment, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has evolved over thousands of years. It is a systemic theory derived from clinical experience, the philosophy of holism and systematology, and the belief that man is an integral part of nature.

Systems Biology for Traditional Chinese Medicine describes how the latest methods in systems biology can be applied to TCM, providing a comprehensive resource for the modernization and advancement of TCM as well as general drug discovery efforts. It is the first comprehensive work to propose a system-to-system research methodology to study the interaction between TCM and the human body and its applications in drug research and development.

Using three popular traditional Chinese medicines—Shuanglongfang, Qingkailing, and Liushenwan—as examples, the authors set forth case examples demonstrating how to find material groups, perform efficacy screenings, and conduct safety evaluations of TCM. The book also:

• Describes the mechanisms of TCM at the molecular and systems levels using chemomics, genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and bioinformatics
• Places modern scientific technologies within the context of TCM, helping drug researchers improve experimental designs and strategies
• Illustrates how a systems biology approach is compatible with TCM's traditional, holistic therapeutic strategies and treatment modalities
• Presents topics of current interest, such as integrated global systems biology and the application of chemometrics research to herbal medicines

This book not only opens a new pathway for the continued development of TCM, but also for systems biology. In addition, it fosters collaboration and discussion among Eastern and Western scientists by applying systems biology to TCM.